Susan Sidersky
Implementation Engineer
AT&T
Milestones
My road in life took a while to figure out.
Always liked math, didn't know what to do with that knowledge.
Went to Univ of FL, majored in Math, thought I'd be a math teacher.
Lost interest in teaching, didn't want to do research, went to college counselor.
Counselor suggested Industrial Engineering. I didn't even know what that was.
Took a lot of courses in the sciences, focused on the "human" side of engineering.
Got a job with Southern Bell, expanded knowledge with each new evolution of the network.
Keep following my journey
Education
High School
Career
Implementation Engineer
I coordinate, plan, and implement the purchase and procurement of hardware equipment.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Engineering
Technology
Accomplishing Goals
Day to Day
A great day is initiating a new project, or completing a project, or making progress on a project, doing all of the little steps necessary for equipment to be turned up for service. I keep track of managing my budget, meeting my deadlines, and learning new processes. Some days the processes flow smoothly, the numbers come in on target, the dates are all met. I try to work in the most efficient manner, so that the work moves easily.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for high school students
Take a variety of courses to be well rounded, but focus on the math and science. Speak to lots of people, tell them your hobbies, interests, and your favorite subjects. Visit corporations on days appropriate for students (there're lots of programs out there), keep expanding and researching various opportunities.
Recommended Education
My career is related to what I studied. I'd recommend the path I took:
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Society in General:
"Engineering is too hard for girls. The boys won't talk to you or help you."
Challenges I Overcame
Gender Discrimination
